Networking Groups.

[KristineS]

The biggest thing I've learned about networking is something similar to what Frederick said, you have to be there for the connection, not for what you can get out of it. That applies whether it's a bunch of humans in the same room, or a bunch of humans on Facebook or Twitter. The minute it becomes all about you, your needs or your business, you've lost your audience and your chance to make connections that could be beneficial. Any kind of networking is usually about playing the long game. You have to look at it like you're planting seeds for trees that might sprout long after you've moved on.

[Spider]

Classic example happening right now. On Monday last, I went to a networking event. I was known to some of those present but at least 8 of the 12 people present were new to me. At one brief spell, I was holding court because the conversation had gotten around to employing people and profit-sharing. This, I believe, is one of the main reasons for the success of my past business. At no point did it come up about what I do now - business coaching. I thought to offer my business card around at that moment but chose not to. The conversation moved on, I started takling one-on-one with the person next to me - about her business (dermitology), my wife's business (dogs), and this person's love for horses. Again, my business was not mentioned.

I have just, this afternoon, received an e-mail from this person to an e-mail address that is only displayed on my website, and judging by the message, she read at least some portions of my website. She learned about me willingly and by her own volition. I believe that gives the information she garnered far more impact and is more likely to lead to a business relationship than if I had tried to sell her at the meeting.

What is more - and this is the whole point of a networking group, for me - she is now part of my network. I know a little of her, she knows something about me, we have a relationship, and I am more likely to refer her than any other person I met that night. And I believe she is more likely to refer me.

[huggytree]

networking should be all about getting leads for other people...when they feel they OWE you one you'll be suprised how quickly a lead can come in return.....if your not getting leads look in the mirror....how many of those people have you given leads to?

ive been in 2 networking groups.

I was in BNI for 2.5 years (just quit 2 weeks ago)...Originally i got 15 percent of my sales from my group....i tried to use everyone i could even when it cost me extra money and even when the quality wasnt as good as i could get elsewhere...if i needed something printed i used our groups printer (even though he wasnt good). When i needed flowers i used our florist (even though she was 50 percent more expensive)....keep everything in the group...I quit the group because people were NOT giving me the leads back...Id use them, but they would find a cheaper Plumber in return. Our group got too many members who were just bad(poor quality/service)...the group started getting members who were all about being the lowest price..since im not the lowest price plumber they didnt refer me.....my sales for the past year were down to 3 percent ....it wasnt worth the 1 hour drive time and the 1.5 hours of the meeting...

the 2nd group was BRG...there werent any businesses that i could refer to other than an electrician...i gave him 3 leads, never got 1 in return from him (even though he's 20x larger than me)...so i dropped out after 6 months...

networking groups are great for learning how to network...my business is all about networking...i have 50 business people who refer people to me...when i get a lead from them i always call to thank them...if it turns into a large job i send them a gift certificate for $100 to a high end restaurant.....getting them a lead in return is always best, but giving them something is necessary....i want to reward them somehow....a thank you is the minimum.....

[Spider]

Well, the last two posts describe two very different ways to network - both work, obviously -- and the good part is, we can do both.

[ParaTed2k]

Thanks to everyone who gave me input here! 6 months later, I am happy to announce that I do intend on renewing my membership in the Greater Ozaukee Networking Group. They are a great bunch of entrepreneurs and I've learned so much from them! I'm glad I stuck it out!

[jamesray50]

I've been thinking about joining the local Chamber of Commerce. Have any of you belonged to them and what are your experiences with them?

[Patrysha]

Chambers really vary depending on the membership...the one in the town I live in was a backstabbing batch of people who would suck out your work and talent if you let them and spit you out just for fun...the ones in two neighbouring towns are awesome, active and helpful.